About the AEA
Our Mission & Industry Vision
Dedicated to building structural support, visionary leadership, and vital education for the long-term success of the emu industry.
Championing small farmers committed to humane, eco-friendly agricultural practices that yield high-quality, beneficial emu products.
The AEA does not, and shall not, discriminate. It follows current nationally recognized non-discrimination policies.
Industry-Leading Quality & Safety Standards
The AEA establishes the benchmark for quality through the AEA Certified Fully Refined® program. While we do not mandate specific refining methods, we require that all oil meets the strict fatty acid profile for pure emu oil and exceeds “Grade A” Trade Rule guidelines. This ensures a safe, stable, and highly effective product for all consumer applications.
The AEA led the effort to classify emu as an “amenable species” under USDA inspection. As an avian species, emu meat is a vital red-meat alternative for those with Alpha-Gal Syndrome, as it is naturally free of mammalian allergens. Our standards ensure a lean, nutrient-dense protein that is safe for restricted diets while maintaining the highest quality.
Advancing the U.S. Emu Industry
The American Emu Association is a member driven, non-profit organization. Any accomplishments achieved by the volunteer Board of Directors or the association is through the efforts and support of the membership. AEA promotes public awareness of emus and their products, sponsors industry related research and monitors legislation that would have an impact on the emu industry. It also publishes a bi-monthly newsletter and several industry brochures The AEA continually works towards building a market environment for process birds and their products, both now, and in the future.
Advocacy & Legislative Growth
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USDA Inspection Status: Successfully advocated to have emu recognized as an “amenable species” for federal inspection.
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Federal & Agency Relations: Built and maintained active working relationships with the USDA, FDA, and AOCS to protect the industry.
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Health Certifications: Secured emu meat’s position on the American Heart Association’s list of heart-healthy food alternatives.
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Legislative Monitoring: Actively monitors and influences national and state legislation that impacts alternative agricultural farming.
Research & Industry Standards
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Certified Oil Program: Developed the AEA Certified Emu Oil™ program and Trade Rules to ensure global product integrity and safety.
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Medical & Oil Research: Continues to fund and promote scientific research regarding the benefits of emu oil and avian co-products.
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Industry Benchmarks: Created the “Feed Formulator” and “Pricing for Profit” tools to help farmers standardize and scale their operations.
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Standardized Trade Rules: established the first international trade rules for the proper handling and refining of high-quality emu oil.
Education & Member Support
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Annual Emu-Con: Hosts the premier national convention for industry networking, expert-led workshops, and market trend analysis.
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Professional Resources: Provides a massive library of business aids, from marketing “The Emu Primer” to guides on home processing.
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Public Awareness: Manages “National Emu Week” (N.E.W.) and national media campaigns to educate consumers on emu product benefits.
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Member Communication: maintains robust digital networks and bi-monthly newsletters to keep farmers connected and informed.
A Sustainable, Zero-Waste Industry
Emus are raised in spacious pens on formulated feed to optimize healthy growth. Beyond producing a heart-healthy red meat, emus provide highly sought-after co-products. The fat is rendered into stable, safe emu oil for health and cosmetics; the leather is crafted into beautiful goods; feathers are used for fashion and industry; and the large green eggs are prized by crafters. There is a niche market for every part of this totally usable bird.
